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Complex numbers are essential in quantum theory, experiments reveal

Physics World

Complex numbers are essential to achieve the most accurate quantum-mechanical description of nature, according to experiments done by two independent teams of physicists. While the mathematics of complex numbers underlies modern quantum theory, it is also possible to describe the quantum world purely in terms of real numbers.

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Weyl loops link up

Physics World

For the first time, a team of physicists have observed quantum mechanical structures known as Weyl loops linking up to form chains. These structures, which are formed from quantum states of electrons in crystalline cobalt manganese gallium (Co 2 MnGa), have a novel topology and must be described using knot theory.

2019 116
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A steampunk guide to quantum physics

Physics World

Possible realms Nicole Yunger Halpern uses the concept of steampunk to explore and explain quantum technologies. Quantum technologies, on the other hand, are as futuristic as they come, embodied in the almost caricaturish hi-tech cryogenic coils of the quantum computer. Courtesy: iStock/Adelevin).

Law 131
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Not everything that can happen does happen – reformulating physics as laws about the impossible

Physics World

My eldest daughter is currently grappling with such thorny questions in her physics lessons, but one answer she is not expected to give is: when, exactly, did this happen? That theory is an attempt to reformulate laws of physics in terms of fundamental statements about what is and is not possible. She offers a delightful metaphor.

Law 116
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A personal mission: one scientist’s search for a theory of everything

Physics World

His life’s mission is to find a theory of everything. In Shell Beach: the Search for the Final Theory , Grimstrup explains how he had a brilliant idea on a trip to China two months after his PhD defence, and how he has since tried to convince other physicists of it. He calls his approach “ Quantum Holonomy Theory ”.

2002 145
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An inventory of cosmological mysteries

Physics World

But as our knowledge has advanced, the specific questions we ask have changed. What’s Eating the Universe and Other Cosmic Questions by physicist and writer Paul Davies is a whistle-stop tour of the biggest mysteries that cosmologists are investigating today. Each of the 30 chapters is devoted to a different question.

2021 128
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LIGO mirrors have been cooled to near their quantum ground state

Physics World

LIGO is designed to detect gravitational waves, but it is also proving to be a fantastic laboratory for pushing the limits of quantum physics. Now, an international team of researchers has cooled the interferometers’ large mirrors close to their quantum ground state. It is not out of the question, but not any time soon.”.

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